Forget to get mom a Mother’s Day gift? It’s not too late. Surprise her by actually following the house rules!
20 moms were polled across the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) and asked for tips they’re using at home to help raise the next generation of clean energy advocates (i.e. you). Here’s something you can give your Mother to help her save energy AND money!
- Turn The Lights Off
Nearly 10% of energy in homes goes to lighting costs. If you switch out your five most frequently used lights with energy-efficient bulbs, you could save mom $75 per year in energy costs.
- Conserve Water
By simply turning the tap off when brushing your teeth, you can save more than 200 gallons per month. Also limit yourself to a five minute shower. Finally, the toilet is not a toy, kids. Standard toilets use more than 1.5 gallons per flush, while older models can use as much as 7 gallons.
- Unplug Electronics
Keeping electronics and equipment, most notably cell phone chargers, constantly plugged in when not in use wastes energy. Consider using an electric power strip for your devices to help reduce phantom loads and save up to $100 per year by turning it off when not in use. This calculator helps estimate how much energy it takes to power your electronics throughout the year.
- Layer Up
Heating and cooling your home accounts for nearly 40% of your energy bill. Bumping down the thermostat by 10-15 degrees for eight hours can save up to 15% per year on your heating bill.
- Avoid Excessive Idling
Shut the car off when waiting for a minute or more. Depending on the engine size and air conditioner use, idling can use a quarter to a half gallon of fuel per hour. Assuming 10 starts per day aren’t exceeded, any shutdown longer than one minute will save up to 2 cents per minute.